The Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA) has issued a stern warning to the public against purchasing or leasing railway lands and buildings from individuals lacking official authorisation. This critical alert follows numerous reports of illegal sales and leases of railway properties in Ghana's Western, Western North, and Ashanti Regions. These unauthorised transactions reportedly involve some individuals, including former employees of the defunct Ghana Railway Company Limited (GRCL).
Dr. Frederick Appoh, the Chief Executive Officer of the GRDA, stated in a public notice that these transactions are occurring without the Authority's explicit approval. He emphasised that such activities contravene the Railways Act, 2008 (Act 779), which governs railway assets. The actions also violate applicable provisions of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), which regulates the management of public funds and assets in Ghana. The GRDA's warning highlights a significant challenge in safeguarding state-owned properties and ensuring adherence to legal frameworks.
This issue fits into a broader narrative of land management and public asset protection in Ghana. The government has been actively working to streamline land administration and combat illegal land dealings, which often lead to disputes and financial losses for citizens. The integrity of public infrastructure projects, such as the ongoing railway network expansion, depends heavily on secure land tenure and the prevention of encroachments. Unauthorised sales of railway lands could impede future development plans and create significant legal hurdles for the state.
Investigations by the GRDA have revealed attempts by some individuals to backdate transaction documents. This tactic aims to create a false impression of legitimacy for these unlawful dealings. "The GRDA categorically states that such transactions are unlawful and will not be recognised by the Authority," the notice firmly declared. The Authority further clarified that it will not regularise any leases or agreements involving railway lands and buildings if these transactions were undertaken without lawful approval. This stance underscores the GRDA's commitment to upholding legal processes and protecting state assets.
The GRDA has urged members of the public to exercise extreme caution and verify with the Authority before engaging in any transaction involving railway properties. "Any person who engages in such unauthorised transactions does so entirely at his or her own risk," the Authority cautioned. This warning is crucial for potential buyers and lessors to avoid financial losses and legal complications. The GRDA is collaborating with relevant state institutions to investigate these alleged illegal activities. Legal action will be pursued against individuals found culpable, reinforcing the Authority's resolve to curb such illicit practices. The Authority reiterated that only transactions duly authorised by the Ghana Railway Development Authority will be recognised, ensuring transparency and legality in all dealings.